29135, Saint Matthews, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29135, Saint Matthews, South Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.36 percent of the residents in 29135 has some form of health insurance. 44.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.51 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 29135 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,900 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29135. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,843 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 583 health care providers accessible to residents in 29135, Saint Matthews, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29135 and Primary Care Availability in Saint Matthews

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape for residents of Saint Matthews, South Carolina, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians within ZIP Code 29135. We will evaluate various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare accessibility and quality in this specific geographic area.

Saint Matthews, a small town in Calhoun County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. The overall health score will be determined by considering the interplay of these factors, ultimately reflecting the ease with which residents can access and maintain their health. This assessment considers both quantitative data and qualitative observations to provide a nuanced understanding.

One of the fundamental metrics for evaluating healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability and easier access to primary care. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP Code 29135 requires gathering data from multiple sources, including the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), the American Medical Association (AMA), and local healthcare providers. This data must be carefully analyzed to account for various factors, such as the number of practicing primary care physicians, the size of the population served, and the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is also crucial. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, physician credentials and experience, the range of services offered, and the adoption of advanced technologies. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, employ board-certified physicians, offer a comprehensive suite of services (including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments), and embrace technological advancements are likely to be considered standout practices. This requires a deep dive into patient reviews, practice websites, and interviews with local healthcare professionals.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians in ZIP Code 29135 can significantly impact patient access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption requires assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telemedicine, and the technological infrastructure available to both physicians and patients.

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health resources within ZIP Code 29135 is a critical component of the overall health score. This involves assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and other resources. The evaluation should also consider the accessibility of these resources, including factors such as cost, insurance coverage, and wait times for appointments. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices can significantly improve access to care and promote early intervention for mental health issues.

The analysis must also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can significantly impact healthcare needs and access. Understanding the specific needs of the population allows for a more targeted evaluation of healthcare resources and the identification of potential gaps in care. This requires analyzing census data, health statistics, and other relevant demographic information.

Data collection and analysis will involve a multi-pronged approach. We will begin by gathering publicly available data from government agencies and healthcare organizations. This will be supplemented by primary research, including contacting local healthcare providers to gather information on physician availability, services offered, and telemedicine adoption. Patient reviews and feedback will also be considered to assess patient satisfaction and the quality of care.

The overall health score will be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 29135, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses.

The identification of specific practices that excel in providing primary care is crucial. These practices can serve as models for others, and their success stories can be used to improve healthcare delivery throughout the region. This requires a careful examination of patient reviews, physician credentials, and the range of services offered. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technological advancements, and demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement are likely to be considered standout practices.

The impact of telemedicine on healthcare access is significant. Its adoption can bridge geographical barriers, improve patient convenience, and reduce healthcare costs. The analysis will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption by primary care physicians in ZIP Code 29135, evaluating the types of services offered remotely, the technology infrastructure in place, and patient satisfaction with virtual appointments.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of overall health. The analysis will assess the presence of mental health professionals, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. This will involve gathering information from local mental health providers, community organizations, and healthcare facilities.

The final overall health score will provide a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare, provide healthcare providers with insights into areas for improvement, and inform policymakers about the healthcare needs of the community. This detailed analysis will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Saint Matthews.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Saint Matthews, including the location of healthcare providers, the distribution of services, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare resources available in your area.